When and where to watch Geminid meteor shower in India?
The night sky is all set to put up a spectacular show as the Geminid meteor shower is expected to peak on the intervening night of December 13-14. This annual event is one of the most popular and active meteor showers of the year, and astronomy enthusiasts in India are eagerly waiting to witness the celestial display. In this blog post, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about when and where to watch the Geminid meteor shower in India.
Best time for viewing the meteor shower
As per Starscapes Zones, the best time for viewing the Geminid meteor shower in India is between midnight and 4 am on December 14. During this time, the sky will be at its darkest, and the meteor shower will be at its peak, making it the ideal time to witness the spectacle. It is recommended to find a spot with minimal light pollution to get the best view of the meteor shower.
Finding the right location
To view the meteor shower, one should try and find a place where city lights are not strong. The bright lights of the city can make it difficult to see the meteors, so it’s essential to find a location with minimal light pollution. If you live in a city, consider traveling to a nearby town or village with less light pollution. Alternatively, you can also try to find a spot in the city that is away from the main roads and streetlights.
Tips for watching the meteor shower
Here are some tips to help you make the most of the Geminid meteor shower:
- Dress warmly: December can be quite chilly in India, so make sure to dress warmly and bring blankets to keep you cozy while you’re watching the meteor shower.
- Bring binoculars: While binoculars are not necessary to watch the meteor shower, they can help you get a closer look at the meteors and the surrounding sky.
- Find a comfortable spot: Find a spot where you can sit or lie down comfortably and watch the sky without any obstructions.
- Be patient: Watching a meteor shower requires patience, so be prepared to spend a few hours gazing at the sky.
- Don’t use your phone: The light from your phone can interfere with your night vision, so try to avoid using it while watching the meteor shower.
What to expect
The Geminid meteor shower is expected to produce up to 120 meteors per hour at its peak. The meteors will appear to originate from the constellation Gemini, hence the name Geminid. The meteor shower is caused by the Earth passing through the debris trail left behind by the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. The meteors will be visible in the sky as bright streaks of light, and some of them may even leave behind a glowing trail.
Conclusion
The Geminid meteor shower is a spectacular event that is not to be missed. With the right location and a bit of patience, you can witness the breathtaking display of meteors in the night sky. Remember to dress warmly, bring binoculars, and find a comfortable spot to watch the meteor shower. Don’t forget to avoid using your phone and be patient, as watching a meteor shower requires a bit of time and effort. So, mark your calendars for the intervening night of December 13-14 and get ready to witness the spectacular Geminid meteor shower in India.
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